This hearty 3-bean chili is packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients! With kidney, black, and pinto beans, it’s filling and satisfying.
Who knew beans could throw such a tasty party? 🍲 I love to top mine with cheese and a dollop of sour cream for that extra yum! Perfect for chilly nights or game day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This oil is great for sautéing and adds a nice flavor. You can swap it for avocado oil or even butter if you prefer. Both will work well!
Beans: Kidney, black, and pinto beans are the stars here. If you don’t have one type, you could use any other canned beans, like chickpeas or cannellini. Just rinse them well.
Diced Tomatoes: The diced tomatoes add moisture and flavor. You can use fresh tomatoes if you have them! Just chop them up and add a bit more broth.
Chili Powder & Spices: Chili powder is essential for that great chili flavor. Feel free to mix in some cayenne for heat or paprika for smokiness based on your taste!
Toppings: I love my chili topped with cheddar cheese and sour cream. You can also try Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or omit dairy to keep it vegan.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chili is Full of Flavor?
Flavor is key in chili! Start by sautéing the onion and bell pepper; this builds a great base. Mix in the garlic at the end of sautéing, as it cooks quickly. This way, you get all the bold flavors without burning the garlic.
- Cook the veggies until soft, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Don’t skip simmering! Let your chili bubble gently for 30 to 40 minutes. This melds all the flavors beautifully.
- Taste your chili as it cooks! Adjust seasonings and add more spices if you want it bolder.
Enjoy making this chili, and don’t be shy about making it your own! 🌶️
3-Bean Chili
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (15 oz) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (8 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup vegetable broth or water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious 3-bean chili takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30 to 40 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at approximately 50 minutes. It’s a perfect choice for a cozy meal without a long wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Veggies:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Garlic:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for another minute. This step will fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma!
3. Mix in the Beans and Tomatoes:
Now it’s time to add all the goodness! Toss in the three types of beans (kidney, black, and pinto), the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir to combine.
4. Season It Up:
Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir well to make sure everything gets coated in those delicious spices.
5. Simmer Away:
Bring your chili to a nice boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This is where the magic happens, as all the flavors meld together!
6. Taste and Adjust:
Once it has thickened, take a moment to taste your chili. You can adjust any seasonings to your liking here for that perfect flavor.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, ladle the chili into bowls and if desired, add some yummy toppings like shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, or fresh chopped green onions. Enjoy this warm, hearty chili on those perfect chilly evenings or during game day!
Happy cooking! 🌶️
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Absolutely! Canned beans are a great time-saver and are just as nutritious. Just make sure to drain and rinse them well to reduce the sodium content!
How Can I Make This Chili Spicier?
If you like heat, try adding a chopped jalapeño or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. You can also stir in some hot sauce while it simmers to kick up the spice level!
Can I Make This Chili in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Simply sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for an easy, set-it-and-forget-it meal.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if it seems too thick.